U-turnThailand

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Thailand. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


1. U-turn

A U-turn is a driving manoeuvre in which a vehicle turns around to travel in the opposite direction. It normally involves crossing part of the roadway and re-entering traffic facing the direction from which the vehicle came.

Before making a U-turn, the driver should check surrounding traffic, pedestrians and cyclists, signal when required and make sure there is enough visibility and space to complete the manoeuvre safely. U-turns may be prohibited by traffic signs or on particular types of roads.

Can you U-turn at Thai junctions?

Only where traffic signs permit it.

🔗 aipalync.org • Act 52–53; safety/100 m approaching traffic, prohibited places and junction permission

🔗 laksong.metro.police.go.th • Official Police-hosted Gazette — full enacted Road Traffic Act amendment 13, 2022

How close to Thai bridges are U-turns prohibited?

On the bridge and within 100 metres of its approach at road level.

🔗 aipalync.org • Act 52–53; safety/100 m approaching traffic, prohibited places and junction permission

🔗 laksong.metro.police.go.th • Official Police-hosted Gazette — full enacted Road Traffic Act amendment 13, 2022

Can you U-turn in Thai safety zones?

No. U-turns in designated safety zones are prohibited.

🔗 aipalync.org • Act 52–53; safety/100 m approaching traffic, prohibited places and junction permission

🔗 laksong.metro.police.go.th • Official Police-hosted Gazette — full enacted Road Traffic Act amendment 13, 2022

Can you U-turn at congested or hazardous Thai locations?

No. The Act prohibits U-turns at critical traffic locations.

🔗 aipalync.org • Act 52–53; safety/100 m approaching traffic, prohibited places and junction permission

🔗 laksong.metro.police.go.th • Official Police-hosted Gazette — full enacted Road Traffic Act amendment 13, 2022

What if Thai oncoming or following traffic is within 100 metres?

Do not U-turn or turn right unless safe and without obstructing that traffic.

🔗 aipalync.org • Act 52–53; safety/100 m approaching traffic, prohibited places and junction permission

🔗 laksong.metro.police.go.th • Official Police-hosted Gazette — full enacted Road Traffic Act amendment 13, 2022

Can Thai drivers ignore a No U-turn sign?

No. Obey the U-turn prohibition.

🔗 aipalync.org • Act 52–53; safety/100 m approaching traffic, prohibited places and junction permission

🔗 laksong.metro.police.go.th • Official Police-hosted Gazette — full enacted Road Traffic Act amendment 13, 2022